NORTH ISLAND SELF-DRIVE TOUR
13 night self-drive tour from £ 2829pp
BEST OF THE NORTH ISLAND
13 NIGHT SELF-DRIVE TOUR
see the island ’ s very best bits • geothermal wonders & culture • a truly diverse holiday experience
DAYS 1-2 Fly to Auckland
DAY 3 Auckland
On arrival make your way to your hotel . The remainder of the day is free .
DAY 4 Auckland
Step out and see the sights of this multi-cultural urban oasis where world-class shopping and phenomenal dining are never too far from harbours , islands , native bush and black-sand beaches . Top sights and experiences include the Auckland Art Gallery , walking the edge of the iconic Sky Tower , or heading to the Auckland Harbour Bridge for a Bridge Climb .
DAY 5 Auckland / Paihia
Your tour of the North Island really gets underway today as you collect your hire car and set off for the Bay of Islands . Your base will be Paihia , where lots of boat trips are available as well as delicious eateries ( 153 miles ).
DAY 6 Paihia
We highly recommend joining a tour to see the ‘ hole in the rock ’ at the tip of Cape Brett , visiting the historic Treaty House at Waitangi Treaty Grounds which marks the beginning of New Zealand as a nation . Those seeking water based activities are spoilt for choice with sea kayaks , sailing and more .
DAY 7 Paihia / Waiuku
Drive to South Auckland where you may wish to amble around the Botanic Gardens ( 154 miles ).
DAY 8 Waiuku / Coromandel Peninsula
Today ’ s destination is The Coromandel , a popular holiday destination with a mountainous interior cloaked in native rainforest , hundreds of miles of dazzling white sand beaches and a relaxed vibe . Don ’ t miss the spectacular Cathedral Cove , the jewel of a protected marine reserve ( 106 miles ).
DAY 9 Coromandel Peninsula / Rotorua
Before you head off , why not pop into one of the many studios to pick up a unique piece of art or pottery to take home with you . Drive onwards to Rotorua , a geothermal wonderland known for bubbling mud pools , shooting geysers and natural hot springs , as well as showcasing fascinating Māori culture ( 129 miles ).
DAY 10 Rotorua
The city offers a raft of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind . It ’ s a must to visit a geothermal park to marvel at the distinctive landscapes and volcanic activity , or maybe enjoy a relaxing soak in a natural hot stream ?
DAY 11 Rotorua / Tongariro
The incredible scenery continues to astound today as you make your way to Tongariro National Park , which is a spectacular landscape of volcanic wonders including emerald lakes , old lava flows and steaming craters . It is an environment of staggering beauty and diversity ( 95 miles ).
DAY 12 Tongariro / Napier
Drive to the coast and the city of Napier , where you ’ ll find street after street of stunning and beautifully-restored Art Deco buildings ( 129 miles ).
DAY 13 Napier
You may wish to spend the day simply strolling through the fascinating streets and admiring the historical architecture . Napier is also home to many fine wineries , as well as fabulous restaurants , bars and , boutique shops . If wine really is your thing , head out into the Hawke ’ s Bay region where no end of wineries and cellar doors welcome you .
DAY 14 Napier / Wellington
Travel to the southern end of North Island the country ’ s capital , Wellington ( 199 miles ).
DAY 15 Wellington
Recently named the “ coolest little capital in the world ” by Lonely Planet , this compact city is a powerful mix of culture , history , nature and cuisine . Be sure to hop on the Wellington Cable Car , take a behind the scenes tour at the award-winning Weta Workshop or , spend time at the Museum of New Zealand , Te Papa .
DAY 16 Wellington
The tour concludes as you return your car at the airport for your onward journey .
Tasman Sea
NORTH ISLAND
Auckland Waiuku
Pahia
Tongariro
Coromandel
Wellington
Pacific Ocean
Rotorua
Napier
Auckland 2 nights | Paihia 2 nights Waiuku 1 night | Coromandel 1 night Rotorua 2 nights | Tongariro 1 night Napier 2 nights | Wellington 2 nights
Rotorua
Napier
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Departures : Daily .
Accommodation : 4★ Airedale Boutique Suites , Auckland ; 4★ Scenic Hotel Bay of Island , Paihia ; 4★ Castaways Resort , Waiuku ; 4★ Beachside Resort , Coromandel Peninsula ; 4★Plus Distinction Rotorua ; 3★ Skotel Alpine Resort , Tongariro ; 4★ The Crown Hotel , Napier ; 4★ Rydges Wellington .
Meals : Room only .
Tour price : The price shown for this self-drive tour includes international flights , accommodation as shown and 13 days compact all inclusive car hire .
114 NEW ZEALAND visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900